Finding the best spinning rod for trout can change your fishing experience completely. While trout are smaller than most other fish, they can present a real issue if you don’t go about catching them correctly. Part of the process is making sure you have the right gear for the job.
To make things a bit easier on you, this list is designed to get you a trout fishing pole that you can rely on for the long run.
Our Top Pick:
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Instead of scouring the internet through numerous brands to find something that hopefully works, you can get it all done on the list below. If you still have any questions after reading through it all, feel free to consult the buyer’s guide for clarity and answered questions. Enjoy!
Trout Spinning Rod Recommendations
1. St Croix Triumph Spinning Rod (6’6 2PC) | Best for Comfort and Longevity
| Item Weight: | 4 ounces |
| Action: | Fast |
| Line Weight: | 4-10 |
| Length: | 6’6 |
The St Croix Triumph Spinning Rod comes in a wide variety of sizes, but the 6’6 2PC set is one of the best available. Break it down into two pieces whenever you’re done using it for easy storage. It locks back into place in seconds with a simple twist, preparing you for a day’s worth of fishing right away.
This particular model is ideal for medium and light fishing, meaning it’s perfect for trout. It’s made with aluminum to reduce the overall weight while still staying fairly durable. Trout aren’t too rough, so you shouldn’t have any issues whatsoever. The cork handle is great for maintaining control throughout the process.
Having a fishing pole that can have a good bend without breaking is a nice benefit for trout fishing. Since they’re not too strong, you can rely on the cushion of the rod’s natural curvature to do the work for you. It doesn’t take away from the challenge, but it makes it easier to handle.
- Breaks down into two pieces for easier storage
- Made with a comfortable, ergonomic cork handle
- Nice bend near the tip of the rod for a cushioned handling
- Slightly pricier than the average rod on the list
2. PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo | Best Trout Rod & Reel Combo
| Item Weight: | 5.29 ounces |
| Action: | Light |
| Line Weight: | 6 |
| Length: | 5.91 feet |
Next up is a combo kit perfect for fishermen of any experience level. The PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel combo comes with a lightweight rod, a reel, a carrying case, some line, lures, and hooks. They take the weight off of your shoulders by saving you money with items that all work together as intended.
Related: check our article about best trout lures!
This particular model is 5.91ft, making it a great option for the average fisherman. It’s ideal for trout fishing, but you can use it in either freshwater or saltwater. Having a versatile fishing rod lets you save even more money by only needing one to get any job done. Combined with the comfortable handling of the grip, you’re going to love this kit.
Carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass makes for a flexible, durable build that’ll last you for years. It’s also a telescoping rod, meaning it can collapse into itself for easy storage. When you’re ready to use it, simply pull it out by both ends for a fully-functional setup in seconds.
- Carbon fiber is durable and incredibly lightweight
- Comfortable handling from end to end
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Fiberglass tends to splinter and break down if you leave it in the sun
- Slightly pricier since carbon fiber is so sought-after
Related: Good Salmon Fishing Rods
3. G.Loomis Trout Series Spinning Rod TSR 681-2 | Best for Professionals
| Item Weight: | 5 ounces |
| Action: | Fast |
| Line Weight: | 2-6 |
| Length: | 6’8 |
The G.Loomis Trout Series Spinning Rod is a high-end option for professionals and fishermen who take the sport seriously. If you want something that’s going to last for as long as you take good care of it while maintaining a high level of performance, look no further. The TSR 681-2 is a true winner in its class.
One of the best features of this fishing rod is that it’s designed for maximum sensitivity. We’ve all had a few fish escape our grasp, but nothing will get away from you thanks to the preset features of this product. Grab the cork and composite cork handle for an unparalleled grip and reel it in as quickly as you’d like.
Since it’s such a lightweight spinning rod, you won’t have to worry about lugging it all over the place. It can be stored nearly anywhere without taking up too much space, and you can rely on the coated metal to prevent rust and corrosion for the long run.
- Made with a cork and composite cork handle
- Designed for high-end reliable fishing
- Ultra-sensitive handling
- High price point
4. Cadence CR7 Spinning Rod (6’9) | Best One-Piece Spinning Rod for Trout
| Item Weight: | 4.8 ounces |
| Action: | Fast |
| Line Weight: | 6-12 |
| Length: | 6’9 |
The Cadence CR7 Spinning Rod comes in numerous sizes, but we’re going to focus on the 6’9 1PC model for now. You can check out a range of their fishing rods going from 5’10 through 7’6 with varying actions as well. This particular model has the perfect bend for trout fishing since it’s a medium heavy-fast action.
A one-piece rod is incredibly beneficial to a lot of fishermen who enjoy the reliability of it. You never have to be concerned about whether or not the hinges with break or strip when you’re putting it back together. It’s also nice because the narrow dimensions are easy to store in a garage, shed, or trunk of a truck.
The ergonomic cork handle is perhaps the most important feature of all. It’s comfortable for you, which allows you to focus on fishing without getting any hand cramps. The spinning action is also at the top of its class in performance value.
- Comes in all sorts of sizes
- Comfortable handling on the grip
- Single-piece design prevents breaking at the seams
- Has the potential to rust since it’s steel
5. Fenwicks Eagle Spinning Rod | Best Large Trout Fishing Rod
| Item Weight: | 10.60 ounces |
| Action: | Moderate – Fast |
| Line Weight: | 4-10 |
| Length: | 7’0 |
The Fenwicks Eagle Spinning Rod is a solid choice for people looking to find a comfortable rod for trout fishing. It’s larger than others, coming in at 7’, which is more than enough for catching smaller fish. You’ll also have the benefit of it coming in a two-piece set to break it down for easy storage. However, there’s also the option for a single-piece set if you prefer it.
The handle is made entirely out of cork, giving it a solid cushion and an ergonomic grip. Cork naturally molds to your hand, making it a custom fit for years to come. The durable construction helps it last for years as well, which is why so many customers flock to this model time after time.
The graphite core of this spinning rod offers tons of flexibility, which prevents snapping and excessive bending. You’ll never have to worry about it being damaged if you stick with trout and panfish. It’s also anti-corrosion throughout the core.
- Comes with a solid graphite core
- Multiple sizes and styles to choose from
- Flexible for trout and panfish
- Not ideal for large fish
- 7’ might be too long for some fishermen
6. Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod (5’6)
| Item Weight: | 5.6 ounces |
| Action: | Light |
| Line Weight: | 6-10 |
| Length: | 5’6 |
Despite the name, the Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod is a beautiful choice for trout fishing. Its comfortable design is one of the many reasons that so many people choose this for their long-term set of equipment. The graphite core combined with the cork handle provides a durable grip and flexibility.
While the 5’6 model is the top choice for many people, there are far more than enough sizes for everyone to find the best one for them. You can also choose between a single-piece or two-piece rod for convenience purposes. Finally, you can choose between numerous actions to change the way you reel in the fish.
Stainless steel is the main material used throughout the exterior of this rod. It’s super durable, and since it’s a shell around the internal graphite core, the weight is dramatically less than the average stainless steel rod. The rings are molded to the rod to prevent them from breaking or bending off.
- Multiple models to choose from if you don’t want the 5’6
- Graphite core for great flexibility
- Stainless steel exterior for high level of durability
- Bends more than others, which may or may not be a con for your preference
7. KastKing Resolute Fishing Rod (6’0 2PC)
| Item Weight: | 3.55 ounces |
| Action: | Fast |
| Line Weight: | 4-8 |
| Length: | 6’0 |
Last but definitely not least on the list is the KastKing Resolute Fishing Rod (6’0 2PC). This model in particular is a popular choice for many fishermen who want to dramatically reduce the weight of their gear. Don’t worry though, this rod uses carbon rather than other cheap materials. Carbon maintains fantastic durability.
Similarly to a few of the other fishing rods on the list, this one comes with molded rings. This allows them to stay strong for years to come. They’re also crafted to guide the fishing line right through rather than cause skips and jumps. This essentially helps you keep the same line for longer without having to replace it.
The polymer handle of this product is another huge plus for many customers. It’s comfortable and it has a slight cushioned feeling to it. You’ll be able to stay relaxed and focus on the task at hand rather than worrying about getting cramps all the time.
- Super lightweight and easy to handle
- Comfortable grip
- Molded rings
- Carbon fishing rods tend to be a little bit more expensive
Choosing the Best Spinning Rod for Trout
Choosing the best spinning rod for trout is a great way to catch fish without buying unnecessary gear. You’ll save money in the long run and it’ll keep the challenge in the sport. If you’re still stuck between choosing from a few different rods on the list, this section is designed to bring you clarity. Good luck!
What type of fishing rod is best for trout?
There are a few different types of fishing rods designed for trout. Generally speaking, ultralight to light action rods are the top choice for trout fishing. They don’t put up much of a fight, so there’s no need to reach for the heavy rods. It’ll also let you save some weight on the actual rod and line weight.
How long should a trout rod be?
As far as the length, it’s a personal preference. Again, trout don’t put up much of a fight. You can easily rely on a 5’0 fishing pole and expect to catch a fair amount of trout if you know what you’re doing. Some people prefer 4’6, while others reach for the 7’0 fishing pole. It’s all up to you and what feels the most comfortable!
Do you need a fly rod?
No! Many beginners think that you need a fly rod specifically to catch trout. However, spinning rods will work equally. Much like a few of the other choices, this one is completely up to you. Getting a good fly reel is another great way to catch trout, but spinning rods are fine as well.
Fly fishing is a very different style of fishing, but if you’re more accustomed to it, then that could be the choice for you. That being said, fly fishing usually has a bit more of a learning curve if you’re not used to fishing. Spinning reels offer more forgiveness, giving you a bit more of a heads-up and time to reel in the fish. Either way, you’re bound to have a blast catching trout!